Mindfulness Meditation · Renewal
This week’s meditation session is led by Lavina Shamdasani and the theme is Renewal. The guided meditation begins at 14:21.
Maitreya, Buddha of the Future; Mongolia; 19th century; Gilt copper alloy with pigment; 10 × 3 × 1 1/2 in.; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2006.25.1a-b
Maitreya is both the buddha of the future and the bodhisattva of loving kindness. Associated with renewal, he represents our collective yearning for a harmonious world.
It is prophesized that Maitreya will usher in a golden age of peace and harmony. Maitreya is said to currently reside in the Tushita Heaven and will arrive on earth during an age when the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha have been largely forgotten, heralding a new era for all sentient beings.
Historically, Maitreya held special meaning for many practitioners in Mongolia. His promise of a new age appealed to many who longed for the restoration of the Mongol Empire.
Maitreya can be recognized by the stupa in his hair. This sculpture was modeled on a famous statue made by the eminent Mongolian artist Zanabazar (1635–1723), who was the leader of Mongolian Buddhism and that country’s first incarnate lama. The distinctive lotus throne and ornate leaves are unique features of Zanabazar’s style.
Lavina Shamdasani is a certified compassion teacher through the Compassion Institute and Stanford University. She has taught programs focused on mindfulness, compassion, joy, and gratitude and led book club discussions and meditations for over five years.
Lavina studied positive psychology coaching at the Wholebeing Institute and helps clients transform their lives and meet their personal and professional goals.
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